As Visa Application Centres (VACs) slowly reopen around the world, finally allowing students to submit their biometrics, we are aware that in some markets, including Brazil, Mexico, and India, VACs remain closed.
Although this will not be an option for all students in these countries, we would like to remind you that students may submit their biometrics at any VAC, even one located outside of their country’s borders. For example, students from Mexico may choose to travel to the United States or Guatemala to submit their biometrics.
For a full list of all visa offices that are currently open for biometrics collection and to learn how to book an appointment, please check IRCC’s biometrics web page. As of November 12, 2020, of the 159 VACs outside of Canada and the US, 100 are open (or open with limited services) and 59 are temporarily closed. Of the 59 VACs closed for biometrics collection, 15 are accepting some documents sent by mail or courier. You may visit IRCC’s “Find a visa application centre” web page for up-to-date information on the status of each VAC located outside of Canada.
Another useful resource is the VFS Global website which has regular updates on all VACs around the world.
